When considering a membership-based coliving program like Outsite, the first question that often comes to mind is: Is it worth it?
The answer for digital nomads, remote workers, and frequent travelers largely depends on how well you leverage Outsite's benefits. With an annual membership fee of $150, Outsite promises discounted stays, exclusive access to locations, a rewards program, and a community of like-minded professionals.
But does it pay off? In this in-depth cost-benefit analysis, we’ll break down exactly what you get for your money, compare it to alternative accommodations, and evaluate whether an Outsite membership is the right investment.
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Understanding the Cost of Outsite Membership
Outsite membership costs $150 per year and is required to book a stay, keeping the network exclusive to members. Rather than allowing public bookings, Outsite creates a more private and professional space for remote workers.
In addition to granting access, membership comes with several perks:
- Welcome credit: Upon joining, members receive a $25 booking credit, effectively reducing the initial cost of membership.
- Discounted stays: Members get up to 35% off long-term stays, which can quickly add to substantial savings.
- Last-minute and seasonal discounts: Special pricing on certain locations at specific times of the year, often up to 60% off.
- Rewards points: Earn points with each stay and redeem them for discounts on future bookings.
- Exclusive access to retreats and special events.
While the membership cost is relatively low, the real value is how much you use it. If you plan to stay at Outsite properties even a couple of times a year, the savings can quickly exceed the membership cost.
Check out everything included in Outsite's membership here.
The Financial Benefits of Outsite Membership
Let's look at an example scenario to determine if Outsite membership is financially beneficial.
Example: Two-Month Stay
Let’s say you stay at an Outsite property for two months within a year. Here’s how the costs might break down:
- Without Membership: $3,000 ($1,500 per month at full price)
- With Membership: $2,400 ($1,200 per month with a 20% member discount)
Savings: $600 – already covering the membership cost four times over.
The financial benefits compound even further for those who travel frequently and stay at Outsite properties multiple times a year. If you stay three to four months a year, the savings could easily reach $1,000+ annually, making the $150 membership fee negligible in comparison.
Comparing Outsite to Other Accommodation Options
An important consideration in deciding whether an Outsite membership is worth it is comparing it to other accommodation models, such as Airbnb, traditional apartment rentals, and hotels.
Outsite vs. Airbnb
While Airbnb offers flexibility, it lacks consistency in pricing and quality. Outsite locations maintain a uniform standard of amenities, including coworking spaces, high-speed WiFi, fully stocked kitchens, and laundry facilities.
Additionally, Airbnb cleaning and service fees can often make short stays more expensive than Outsite. And there's always the unexpected added costs upon arrival if the wifi speeds or environment are not work-friendly.
Without Outsite, you pay the membership once and there are no hidden fees throughout the year, nor do you have to worry about laundry or wifi speed access upon arrival- they are built in.
As for cleaning, Outsites have on-site cleaning for shared spaces, and your room gets cleared weekly- you don't get that with an Airbnb.
Outsite vs. Hotels
Hotels provide a high level of comfort but can become costly for long-term stays. Additionally, hotels lack kitchen access and community aspects, so you spend more as you eat out.
For digital nomads and remote workers who spend more time on the road, cooking meals and interacting with like-minded professionals adds significant value that hotels don't offer.
Outsite vs. Traditional Apartment Rentals
Renting an apartment long-term often requires security deposits, utility setup, and long lease commitments. Furnishing the place to feel like home may also require upfront expenditures.
Outsite eliminates these hassles by offering fully furnished, move-in-ready accommodations without the administrative burden of leasing contracts. No utility bills that vary or require deposits, and no bedding or furnishings to worry about either.
One rate gets you a cozy, clean home.
An added amenity you get at Outsite that you won't get with an apartment rental is cleaning. Outsites have a cleaning staff that keeps the shared areas clean and will clean your room weekly. If you had your own apartment, you'd be doing the cleaning or paying someone to do it for you.
Discover the Outsite Locations you can Book Without a Membership here.
The Non-Financial Benefits of Outsite Membership
Beyond cost savings, an Outsite membership provides advantages that can’t always be measured in dollars.
1. A Built-In Community
Outsite attracts digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and remote professionals, creating an environment where networking and collaboration are easy. Whether sharing business ideas over coffee or forming travel partnerships, the Outsite community adds incredible value on its own.
2. Hassle-Free Living
With Outsite, you won’t have to worry about signing leases, setting up WiFi, or furnishing a place. Each location comes fully equipped, allowing you to focus on work and travel instead of logistics.
3. Work-Optimized Environments
Airbnbs and hotels aren’t always designed for remote work, but Outsite locations are. With dedicated work areas, coworking spaces, and fast- accessible internet, you can stay productive while traveling.
4. Flexibility to Move Around
A major perk of Outsite is the flexibility to switch locations without dealing with new rental agreements. Whether you're spending a month in Lisbon, two weeks in Bali, or a summer in Lake Tahoe, moving between destinations is simple and hassle-free.
Is an Outsite Membership Worth It for You?
While an Outsite membership offers undeniable benefits, its value ultimately depends on your travel style and accommodation needs. Here’s who benefits the most:
It’s Worth It If You:
- Travel frequently and stay at Outsite locations for at least two weeks per year.
- Prefer flexibility over long-term apartment rentals.
- Value community and networking with other remote professionals.
- Need reliable workspaces and strong WiFi.
- Want to avoid the unpredictability of Airbnb pricing and hotel stays.
It Might Not Be Worth It If You:
- Only travel occasionally and stay in hotels or Airbnbs for short trips.
- Prefer renting long-term in a single location without moving frequently.
- Don’t require a work-friendly environment.
- Aren’t looking to engage with a digital nomad community.
Final Verdict on Outsite: The Smart (and Easy) Choice for Remote Workers
If you embrace a location-independent lifestyle and regularly move between cities, Outsite membership is a worthwhile investment. The combination of financial savings, convenience, and community makes it one of the best coliving options for digital nomads and remote professionals.
However, the benefits may not be as impactful if you only travel once or twice a year and prefer traditional rentals.
For those who meet the ideal profile, the $150 annual fee pays for itself quickly. With strategic planning and frequent stays, Outsite membership becomes a powerful asset that makes your travel experience easier and more enjoyable.
Interested in joining? Visit Outsite’s website to learn more and explore how membership can fit into your travel lifestyle.
